Visakhapatnam Harbour Fire

 In a devastating incident at the Visakhapatnam harbour, a fierce fire engulfed approximately 25 boats, causing nearly ₹5 crore in damages. The source of the fire is believed to be a feud involving a young YouTuber who gained popularity by sharing fishing videos. Investigators are currently questioning the YouTuber, suspecting that rivals, entangled in a monetary dispute, might have deliberately set fire to one of his boats moored at the harbour.

As the fire was noticed by local residents and fishermen late at night, immediate measures were taken to isolate the burning boat. Despite efforts to prevent the flames from spreading, the wind and water currents thwarted these attempts, leading to the ignition of at least 25 boats. The situation worsened as the boats, loaded with diesel and gas cylinders used by fishermen, contributed to the intensification of the fire, causing explosions that added to the panic in the area.

Firefighters were called in, but their initial attempts were insufficient. Eventually, the Indian Navy intervened, deploying a vessel equipped with sand, foam, and chemicals to successfully extinguish the flames. Each boat, valued at ₹15 lakh, added up to the substantial financial loss suffered by the fishermen, many of whom lacked insurance coverage for their boats.

Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner Ravi Shankar announced a comprehensive investigation into the incident, involving authorities from the port, fisheries, and police departments. The tragic event drew criticism from the Opposition Telugu Desam Party, accusing the government of failing to implement security measures in the sensitive shipyard area.

Fishermen, profoundly affected by the loss of their boats, protested outside the harbour, seeking support from the Andhra Pradesh government. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed shock and ordered an inquiry, directing Fisheries Minister Dr. S. Appala Raju to assess the site and provide necessary financial assistance to affected fishermen. Vizag South MLA Vasupalli Ganesh also visited the accident site, assuring government support and calling for a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the fire.